Florida Buyer's Guide · Step 4 of 7
Inspection Period
The inspection period is your window to learn everything you can about the home and decide whether to move forward.
Under Paragraph 12 of the AS IS contract, the inspection period is 15 days after the Effective Date unless a different number is written in. You can cancel for any reason by delivering written notice before it ends, and your deposit is returned.
How it works
- You choose the inspectors and pay for the inspections.
- The seller has to give reasonable access to the home.
- If an inspection causes damage, you're responsible for repairing it.
- If you don't cancel in time, you accept the property in its current condition and move forward.
Inspections Florida buyers commonly order
- General home inspection: roof, structure, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and appliances
- 4-point inspection: roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC. Many Florida insurers require it for older homes.
- Wind mitigation inspection: documents hurricane-resistant features that can lower your insurance premium
- WDO (termite) inspection: wood-destroying organisms
- Pool, septic, well, sewer or mold: depending on the home
Check insurance at the same time
Get homeowners insurance quotes during the inspection period. In Florida, the roof's age and the 4-point and wind mitigation reports can change your premium a lot. Ask about flood insurance too.
Negotiating after inspections
Under the AS IS contract the seller isn't required to fix anything. You can still ask for:
- Repairs
- A credit at closing
- A lower price
If you can't agree, you can cancel before the inspection period ends. Any change to the contract has to be in writing.
Common Questions
Can I get more time for inspections?
Only if the seller agrees in writing.
What if the lender requires repairs?
Once you move past the inspection period, repairs the lender requires are your responsibility under the AS IS contract. That's one more reason to inspect carefully.
This guide is general information about the Florida Realtors/Florida Bar AS IS Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase (ASIS-7x) and the Florida Realtors buyer brokerage forms. It is not legal advice. Day counts shown are the form's defaults and apply only when the blank is left empty; your contract controls. For legal questions, consult a Florida real estate attorney.